The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) and the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA) have agreed to implement stricter oversight of goods transiting through Tanzania’s ports of Dar es Salaam and Tanga en route to South Sudan, a move aimed at curbing diversion and protecting government revenue.

TRA Commissioner General Yusuph Mwenda said South Sudan has requested a dedicated customs area at the ports to ensure secure and timely handling of its cargo.

“Increasing transparency and efficiency at our strategic maritime gateways is critical for regional trade and investment,” Mwenda said.

The partnership also includes the integration of digital customs systems, enabling interoperable platforms between TRA and SSRA.

Officials said the measures will minimise opportunities for corruption, reduce operational delays, and strengthen supply chain predictability—factors that are critical for investors in logistics, shipping, and trade-oriented sectors.

Capacity-building programmes are planned, with TRA providing mentorship and operational expertise to help modernise South Sudan’s customs workforce.

A formal Memorandum of Understanding is expected by the end of February and will establish structured training initiatives and best-practice exchanges.

SSRA Commissioner General William Koul said the collaboration would not only secure revenue but also facilitate trade and regional economic integration, benefiting businesses across East Africa.

The initiative is significant in a regional context, as Tanzania’s ports serve as a key trade corridor for landlocked countries including South Sudan, Uganda, Rwanda, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Improved customs oversight and digital integration are expected to reduce clearance times and strengthen investor confidence in transport, logistics, and commodity trade.

Analysts said the partnership signals growing institutional maturity in East African trade corridors, helping to create a more predictable environment for foreign direct investment in ports, warehousing, logistics services, and cross-border commercial operations.

“Streamlined customs procedures and secure cargo handling enhance the region’s attractiveness to investors and global supply chains,” Mwenda added.

Notes to Editors

• The partnership involves the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) and the South Sudan Revenue Authority (SSRA), focusing on customs oversight, digital integration, and capacity building.
• Tanzania’s ports of Dar es Salaam and Tanga serve as critical maritime gateways for South Sudan and other landlocked countries in East and Central Africa.
• A dedicated customs handling area for South Sudan cargo is intended to reduce diversion, improve cargo traceability, and protect government revenue.

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